Awareness and Perception of Plagiarism by Undergraduates in selected Faculties in University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Plagiarism is a highly debated issue that institutions of higher learning across the world must tackle. Yet, the rate of plagiarized work is alarming. This study examines the perception and awareness of plagiarism among undergraduates in selected faculties in University of Ilorin. The sample consists of 324 undergraduates selected from two (2) out of the twelve (12) faculties in the university. Data was collected, using a questionnaire distributed to the 324 respondents and responses were received from 314 of the respondents. Analysis revealed that majority of the respondents are aware of what constitutes plagiarism but they have negative perception about plagiarism. The reasons alluded to plagiarism are lack of referencing skills, laziness and lack of time management, assignment is difficult, everybody is doing it and poor writing skills. The study concluded that undergraduates in University of Ilorin have an average level of awareness of plagiarism and they still engage in the act of plagiarism. The study recommends that emphasis should be placed on educating students on what constitutes plagiarism through faculty workshops and that students must be given exercises on academic writing and they should also be taught the various referencing styles.